Second phase of Children's Hospital for Wales to go-ahead

The Children's Hospital for Wales has been given approval to go ahead with the second part of its £63.8 million improvement project.

The Welsh government has said it will fund new wards, equipment and four operating theatres at the hospital in Cardiff.

Although the hospital opened in 2005, it has taken until this point for financial issues to be settled before the expansion could continue.

Arguments about who would provide funding for which parts of the project were not resolved until 2008, followed by an examination of the business case.

The second phase of the project will also see the creation of a radiology department, critical care unit and an outpatient unit.

The work will start now and is estimated to be finished by 2015. An eye unit and a private garden for patients and relatives will also be constructed.

Health Minister Lesley Griffiths said on visiting the site that they wanted the hospital to offer patients first-rate treatment.

"The first phase of the Children's Hospital has already made a huge difference to the lives of thousands of children from across Wales, providing excellent care and support for their families," she said.

"The second phase will mean that all children and young people will receive their care in modern, purpose-built settings, enabling more services to be provided in Wales for the children of Wales."

Lyn Jones, Chairman of the Noah's Ark Appeal, said: "With these vital funds we will ensure that children in Wales receive the very best healthcare possible. This is the best Christmas gift we could have asked for."